AKG K518 vs Sony MDR-XB550AP: 33 facts in comparison

1. highest frequency

The highest frequency at which device produces audio. The higher the high-frequency response, the clearer and crispier the treble.

24000Hz

Sony MDR-Z1R: 120000Hz

22000Hz

2. lowest frequency

The lowest frequency at which the device produces audio. The lower the low-frequency response, the stronger and juicier the bass.

16Hz

Sony MH1CBLK: 1Hz

5Hz

3. has sound isolation/passive noise reduction

The device sits tightly in place, creating an acoustic seal which reduces background noise and prevents your music from leaking out.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

44% have it

4. weight

30g lighter.

150g

Sony MDR-EX150AP: 3g

180g

5. impedance

Impedance is the device’s electrical resistance to the current being pushed through it. The lower the impedance, the easier it is to get higher volume and requires less power.

32 Ohms

Flips Solo 2 Social: 4 Ohms

24 Ohms

6. has a neodymium magnet

Devices with neodymium magnets are lighter and more powerful than those which use ferrite magnets. They also have more bass and clear high notes.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

36% have it

7. sound pressure level

Devices with a higher sound pressure level are generally louder when supplied with any given audio source.

115dB/mW

AKG K553 Pro: 144dB/mW

102dB/mW

8. has a detachable cable

With a detachable cable you can use alternative cables, and if the cable is pulled it will pop out instead of breaking.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

39% have it

9. has stereo speakers

Devices with stereo speakers deliver sound from independent channels on both left and right sides, creating a richer sound and a better experience.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

76% have it

10. can be used as a headset

A headset is one headphone or pair with a built-in microphone. Headsets can be used for applications which require communication i.e. Skype, games with voice chat, mobile phones etc.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

47% have it

11. can be folded

Folding devices are good for transporting as they take up less space in your bag.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

31% have it

12. has active noise cancelling (noise reduction)

This type of device allows you to listen at lower volume levels, causing less ear fatigue as you don't have to crank up the volume to overcome background noise. Ideal for plane rides and morning commutes.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

15% have it

13. Can be used wirelessly

Wireless devices allow users more freedom of movement.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

27% have it

14. has an in-line control panel

There is a control panel on the cable, so you can easily operate the device without having to interact with it.

15. has an over-the-ear form

Comfortable full-size form with earcups that fully enclose your ears. This model is loved for its increased sound isolation and the fact that it won't leak sound to your neighbors. It offers potential for maximum bass and loudness levels.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

39% have it

16. has a tangle free cable

The cable is designed to minimize tangling.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

23% have it

17. control panel placed on a device

There is a control panel on the device body, so you can easily access the volume control or remote without having to interact with a cable or another device it's connected to.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

20% have it

18. travel bag is included

The device comes with its own special case or pouch, which is useful for safe transportation.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

64% have it

19. has included ear pads

Allows you to change ear pads without buying new ones.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

44% have it

20. has a straight plug

A straight plug is better when the jack is on the top or bottom of your player.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

48% have it

21. has an L-shaped plug

An L-shaped plug is better if the jack is on the left or right side of the device, so that the cable isn't bent, and is less likely to break when the device is in your pocket.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

30% have it

22. has a 3.5mm male connector

A standard 3.5mm male connector is suitable for use with all MP3 players and computer sound cards.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

80% have it

23. sweat resistant

Resistance to sweat makes it ideal for use while doing sports.

AKG K518

Sony MDR-XB550AP

14% have it

24. cable length

A long cable ensures more freedom of movement.

1m

Pioneer SE-A1000: 6m

1.2m

25. has a coiled cord

A coiled cord typically offers more flexibility as it can be extended, and taken outside for example.